Criminology (Diploma) - Level 3

Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminals.

The WJEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology is a qualification with elements of psychology, law and sociology that complements studies in humanities.

The qualification would support learners’ progression from any study at Level 2, particularly GCSEs in Sociology, Law, Psychology, Citizenship, History and Humanities.

What will I study?

You will study four mandatory units:

• Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime

• Unit 2: Criminological Theories

• Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom

• Unit 4: Crime and Punishment.

The first unit will enable the learner to demonstrate understanding of different types of crime, influences on perceptions of crime and why some crimes are unreported.

The second unit will allow learners to gain an understanding of why people commit crime, drawing on what they have learned in Unit 1.

The third unit will provide an understanding of the criminal justice system from the moment a crime has been identified to the verdict. Learners will develop the understanding and skills needed to examine information in order to review the justice of verdicts in criminal cases.

In the final unit, learners will apply their understanding of the awareness of criminality, criminological theories and the process of bringing an accused to court in order to evaluate the effectiveness of social control to deliver criminal justice policy.

Entry requirements

• GCSE English Language and Maths grade 4-9

• GCSE Double Science grade 4/4 plus another GCSE grade 4-9

OR 

• GCSE Triple Science grade 4/4/4.

Study programmes - essential skills for employment

If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.

Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.

Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.

In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.

How long is the course?

Two years.

How will I be assessed?

Students study four units and two are externally assessed:

The Criminological Theories unit and the Crime and Punishment unit are both assessed with a 90-minute exam worth 75 marks in the June of each year.

The exams include short and extended answer questions, based on stimulus material and applied contexts. Each question will have an applied problem-solving scenario.

Internal assessments are through controlled assessments.

What does the course lead to?

Careers are often pursued in courts and tribunal service, probation and offender management, law, crime scene investigation, psychology and counselling, social work and intelligence services.